Open-Angle Glaucoma

Definition

Glaucoma
describes a group of eye disorders that causes damage to the optic nerve. This degenerative eye disease is one of the leading causes of chronic blindness in the US.
Open-angle glaucoma is the most common form of glaucoma in the United States.

Open-angle glaucoma can often be controlled well with proper treatment, and most patients who receive treatment will maintain their vision.

Causes

Open-angle glaucoma is caused by increased intraocular pressure. Within the eye, fluid is made and then drained from the eye. If either the fluid is made too quickly (not common) or drains too slowly, then the pressure of the eye can increase, leading to damage to the optic nerve.

This damage to the optic nerve can lead to a decrease in peripheral vision and may eventually cause blindness.

Risk Factors

Glaucoma is more common in African American and Hispanic people. Other factors that may increase your chance of getting glaucoma include:

Family history of glaucoma

Glaucoma in one eye—This increases the risk of developing glaucoma in the other eye.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.